Regency is always one of my favorite sub-genres, and this publishing house never disappoints. I recommend for fans of Sarah M. Eden and Josi Kilpack, as well as Martha Keyes and Ashtyn Newbold.

I really enjoyed the Hearts of Briarwall! It was set in such an interesting time period, with women trying to break out of the expectations society held for them at the turn of the century.

I loved The Wendy League, and their motto that "Like Wendy Darling, we seize the opportunity to fly." This group of friends was delightful. They looked out for each other but tried to live life at its fullest. I also enjoyed the main character, Lydia. She was a good mixture of independence, naivety, and love. I enjoyed watching her growth as she balanced societal expectations with her adventurous personality. I enjoyed the chemistry between her and Spencer as well. Their interactions were full of delightful banter and sparks of attraction.

The characters in the book suffered mishaps from withheld secrets and miscommunications. These were not my favorite parts, but that's a personal preference. Secrets and not communicating well are things that frustrate me in a story.

Overall, I thought this book was very entertaining and it was so fun to read about this time period. I definitely recommend this to readers who enjoy historical romance!

Thank you to Shadow Mountain Publishing, NetGalley, and Krista Jensen for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest opinions!

I adored this author’s contemporary Christmas novel so I of course jumped at the chance to read this one! I’m always a little bit wary when a author moves from contemporary to historical but in this case it payed off!
I liked Lydia’s character, she had spunk and fire but knew how to temper it when the situation required. She also wasn’t obnoxious in her pursuit of the suffragette movement, wanting more for women without feeling the need to bash men in the process.
Spencer was wonderful, I felt for the things he’d had to overcome but was proud of the way he worked and planned to make a better life for himself. I loved the way he accepted and embraced Lydia’s personality as she was, loving her for her passion not in spite of it. The two of them made a wonderful pair and I loved seeing them fall for each other.
In short this story was a delight that I thoroughly enjoyed reading!

Thank you to NetGalley for letting me read this ARC. I loved this book. Set in the 1900's with the invention of cars, and women suffragettes fighting for the right to vote. It contained all of my favorite parts of the proper romance series, but in a new timeframe. I loved the main character Lydia and her friends. This book was exiting, fast paces, and full of romance

I love Lydia and her friends of the Wendy's League. Lydia is independent, brave, feisty and fun. Her love for her brother, Andrew, is admirable as well. When Spencer, a friend of Andrew's from school, comes to visit with a business proposal, more than a business proposal might happen. This is a delightful book. I am so looking forward to the other members of the Wendy's League stories.

Hearts of Briarwall was fun to read with a unique take of the Edwardian Era. I also enjoyed the conversations of the Wendy League. Also, appreciated that the author made an effort to raise some serious issues of that era. I also loved the secondary characters and how some of them evolved towards the end of the story. For example, her brother had good intentions; however, some did not end up good for Lydia.

My first read from this author. I hope she makes stories about Lydia’s friends. However, I did enjoy their different personalities. I give this book 3.5 stars and recommend it to anyone who loves a clean historical romance.

Wise words from Lydia: “…I just believe people shouldn’t be pigeonholed for being born into circumstances they had no control over.”

Thank you to the publisher for allowing me to read an arc in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoy the sweetness of the romance in this book. It gains in depth with enough anticipation to hook the reader. The other thing worth mentioning is the friendships that Jensen creates within the pages. It is dynamic and nuanced and I appreciated it greatly.
The story is well-written with a plot that resonates well with the genre.
The world building is intricate and I appreciate the small, though significant hints of history sprinkled throughout the story: Not too much that I’m saddled with a history lesson and not too little to leave me confused – I found it to be a good balance.
The story and characters sweep you up into their world, and that is exactly what a story is supposed to do. Good job, Krista Jensen. I will recommend this book.

I really loved this book! It’s going on my favorites shelf, which is a designation given only to books I intend to read multiple times.
The character development the author attained was spectacular. I now want to read books about each of the Wendy’s girls and also all of Ruby’s brothers and, most especially, Andrew. I loved the friendship and sisterhood amongst the women. They were all charming and witty and wonderful.
It looks like this author only has one other book out, so she’s not just new-to-me, but newly published as well. I’ll definitely be reading her other book and likely any more she writes. (Ms. Jensen, if you read your reviews: I know you just finished this one, but I hope you have more in the works. Please write fast. 😉)

Edited to add: I just looked for the one other book Goodreads has listed for this author and Kindle has a bunch more books with the name Krista Lynn Jensen… is it the same author and Goodreads just hasn’t merged her works?? If anyone knows, please give me a shout; thanks!

This was a sweet turn-of-the century romance. Whenever I read something set between 1890 and 1910 I always find that I wish more romances were set during this time. This one definitely gave you that turn-of-the century feel - where everything is on the edge of changing - from Women's suffrage - to just cars on the road.

Lydia is one of those things that is changing - she's grown up and ready to spread her wings. Both her very conservative older brother and status are holding her back. When her brother's old school friend Spencer comes to visit - with a business proposal in hand - everything shifts quickly.

Lydia and Spencer are a super sweet couple. I really felt for Spencer and everything he was trying to achieve in the wake of his father's scandal and loss. I appreciated Lydia as a new adult character - with emphasis on the new side of things. The one issue I really had with the book focused on the fact that Lydia never really considered Spencer's position in the world and what she was asking of him - but I did love that she was so passionate and really wasn't afraid to go after what she wanted.

Overall - I liked this one a lot. I received it as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.

This is an historical novel set in the Gilded Age in England, before royal assassinations swept through continental Europe, before the Titanic sank, and before WWI. It's an exciting time period and this novel reflects that.

Lydia and her friends are suffragettes and eager to embrace all that's new and progressive. The friendships among the four girls is strong and they are there for each other as needed.

Unfortunately for Lydia, her older brother Andrew is overprotecting and won't let her learn how to drive, which is something she very much wants on account of her interest in automobiles.

Spencer is Andrew's friend and looking to get his support in his new venture with automobiles. Despite some obstacles and differences, Spencer and Lydia develop a friendship that includes their mutual love of cars.

There's the potential for a series with books for each of Lydia's friends.

I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.

Words cannot adequately express how much I loved this book! This is the first novel written by Krista Jenson that I have read and all I can say is, I cannot wait for more! Her writing style is vivid and keeps the reader engaged. I could see myself there with her characters, experiencing every happiness, love, nervousness, and every scared feeling. I cried with them, laughed with them, rejoiced with them. This is a wonderful story!
Lydia wants nothing more than to be seen as the woman she is, by society and especially by her brother, Andrew. Since their parents' death in an automobile accident when she was very young, Andrew has done everything to protect her, even attempt to protect her from herself. But Lydia has grown up, is her won woman, and desperately wants to be seen as such. Spenser is trying to create a future for himself. With a great investment idea, he decides to approach his longtime friend, Andrew, knowing that this attempt may be a long shot. He plans to ask his friend to invest in an automobile parts company, hoping that the sting of Andrew's parents death in an automobile accident has long since passed. He expected to have a little difficulty convincing Andrew, what he didn't expect was Lydia.

"Hearts of Briarwall" is a thoroughly entertaining glimpse into Edwardian England, as the automobile was becoming more common and women were demanding more rights. At the forefront of this evolving society is a group of four intrepid women known collectively as "The Wendy League" because they are determined to figuratively fly.

This lighthearted romp does have a few serious moments, however. The motorcar(!) plays a part in those. Characters are well-developed. Unconventional heroine Lydia Wooding and forward-thinking Spencer Hayes have a wonderful rapport, much to the chagrin of Lydia's brother Andrew, who I believe at one time was referred to as an "antique" or something equally funny. His character grows the most in the book. The secondary players are all great.

With its clever dialogue, endearing characters, and enlightening view of the changing times of the early 1900s, I loved this book. Jensen's prose is a delight. I've read a few of her stories in various romance anthologies. I do hope this is the start of a series, as there are several characters whose tales must be told.

Thanks to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for an ARC of this engaging novel.

THIS BOOK!!! I never really could get into books that took place at the beginning of the 20th century but this one just had me enthralled from page 1. I love romance books that have really strong females that have weaknesses and meet their matches in a man who lets them be who they are and falls in love with them because of who they are. Lydia's independence, fearlessness, and passion are all so relatable to me as a modern woman. I highly suggest this book to everyone, especially anyone who wants to get into historical fiction/romance.

If I were in a library and pulled this book off the shelf, I would undoubtedly put it right back on because of the cover. The cover gives the wrong impression; however, because while it looks outdated and stuffy, the heroine is exactly the opposite. Lydia is vivacious, progressive, and desperate to learn to drive. When her brother's friend, Spencer, comes to visit with an idea for motorcar shops, she is immediately drawn to him.

While I wished there were more moments for emotional growth between the two characters and more scenes of them developing a relationship, this was a really enjoyable read. The characters make sense together and challenge each other to address weaknesses they see in themselves. There are many times honest conversation and maturity would have eased their relationship issues, but those shortcomings make sense for the characters and overall story.

I almost enjoyed the secondary characters more than Lydia and Spencer. This is not to say I did not enjoy the pair, but rather to highlight the strength of the secondary characters, where are often overlooked! I sincerely hope that the author writes about each of the young women in their friend circle, as they were all unique and fun. I especially look for ward to reading more about Florrie, who made me laugh out loud on several occasions. And while Lydia's brother was, at times, an antagonist in this story (as a protective older brother often is to his younger sister), I would love to read a book that highlights him in the future too.

I would recommend this book to anyone who loves clean romances or light historical fiction. I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review and opinion.

What a charming account of a love story at the beginning of the 20th century ! The quality of the story telling is a pure delight ! I strongly recommend this book to anyone in search of escapism to other times in England, with landscapes, smells, people, settled with a picture-like countryside, when young people were expecting a New World with enthusiasm. There is no nostalgy or "the good old days" feelings, The characters are vividely depicted with precise wording, and the references to literature are " à -propos". Can't wait for the saga !

What a delightful Edwardian Romance Krista Jensen has given us! I absolutely loved Miracle Creek Christmas and can honestly say that this jump to historical fiction was perfectly executed.

I loved the idea behind the Wendy League and would love to see the other girls have their own HEA! The women's suffrage movement combined with the motorcar movement gave me all the turn-of-the-century feels! I was wishing I had more time to research all the early motorcars mentioned in the book. What an amazing time the early 20th century would have been to live in.

Even though I wanted to knock him over the head a few times, I thought Andrew was a really well written brother. His concerns and attitudes toward his sister, though frustrating, were believable and real. Lydia and Spencer were a match made in heaven and I adored Lydia for her forward thinking and for her bravery in making the first move. (Some of us have more experience with this than others. Just sayin.)

I'm all for a good HEA and I love a good epilogue but in this case I actually thought the ending of the last chapter was prefect. I loved it.

Lovely and engaging with a little bit of humor; this story is a perfect, feel good read.

This was such a fun and sweet read! I enjoyed the characters and the relationships they had with each other. I can definitely see myself rereading this book soon. Hearts of Briarwell is written by Krista Jensen and I was so excited to see she was publishing another book! I adored Miracle Creek Christmas and I couldn’t wait to read this book!
Lydia was just so full of life and fun, it was a joy to read about her. I loved her spirit and her character. She tried to be herself but she was also aware of others. I really liked Lydia as a character, she was relatable and I felt like I could understand her. However she was also trying to figure out how to be herself. She had to grow up without her parents after their death and her brother was just doing his best to raise her. Lydia had to learn to make sense of the world she was born into, how to be herself but also still respect and have a relationship with her brother. It was sweet how Spencer always seemed to encourage Lydia to be herself.
Spencer was also just trying his best. He was trying to build a place for himself in the world and he was willing to put in the hard work. He had sworen himself away from love, but Lydia had a way of working herself past his walls. I liked Spencer, he was a likable character but he also had his faults. He was steady and he cared deeply for those in his circle. It was sweet to read about him falling for Lydia but also trying to be honorable. Spencer had to learn to stand up and fight for what he believed in.
Spencer and Lydia were sweethearts together, I loved their chemistry and their easy banter. The romance was so sweet and fun! Their relationship didn’t feel rushed or awkward, it fit them. The storyline was compelling and I didn’t want to stop reading. I also adored the side characters! I hope they get their own books. Lydia’s friends were so full of life and their interactions were just too funny. I also really liked Lydia’s brother, Andrew. He was a bit stuffy but he had a kind heart and he really cared for his sister. They all need books!
Hearts of Briarwell was another win for Jensen! It was just as good as I had hoped! I would definitely recommend Hearts of Briarwell! Hearts of Briarwell is a clean historical romance, good for those who enjoy sweet historical reads with a hint of mischief.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.

HEARTS OF BRIARWALL by KRISTA JENSON is a delightful romantic comedy which takes place in England in the Edwardian era. It is altogether a most enjoyable read with many “laugh out loud” moments and also some serious matters that are addressed. The characters are wonderful and the importance of friendship comes out strongly.
In it we come acroaa the four ladies of the Wendy League whose motto is “Like Wendy Darling at the nursery window, we seize the opportuity to fly”, inspired by Peter Pan, and who meet weekly to discuss such things as “Courage, aspirations, community, womanhood, and…..men.” Their repartee is most amusing and their loyalty to one another is unbreakable, especially in their protection of one of their members, Lydia Wooding, who has to bear with her brother Andrew’s overbearing bossiness. Lydia’s outgoing and genuine personality is very different to her brother’s serious and austere nature.
Andrew becomes a different person when his school friend, Spencer Hayes, comes to visit, looking for investors in his proposed Hayes Motor Supply Shop, Secrets come out and things deteriorate quite rapidly………
That is all I am going to tell you.
I highly recommend this lovely rom-com.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Shadow Mountain Publishing. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

I really enjoyed this book, it had a great story line and an interesting take on woman in the early 1900's.
The focused on the Lydia and her brother Andrew, centering around the loss of their parents. Lydie comes to terms with her parents death much better than Andrew and supports him, along with his friend Spencer, through the book.
This was a great bit of writing with romance threaded with history and an engaging plot. I loved seeing Lydia and Spencer's relationship grow and I loved them separate and together.
I also enjoyed the threading of Woman's Rights and Suffrage throughout the book, it was threading well with the story and didn't stick out too much.
Each of the characters had progression throughout the book and we saw positive changed in them.
If you love historical fiction and romance, this ones for you!

Edwardian England and the dawn of the motorcar.

Spencer Hayes has always loved engines. When he returns to England after a visit to America he is full of ideas concerning the new motorcar industry. He has decided to visit his old school friend, Andrew Wooding, to share his vision and while there meets Andrew's younger sister, Lydia. Spencer knew her as a child, but now she is a young woman full of many bold ideas of her own.

This book does well to celebrate friendship. Lydia has a group of friends who laugh and encourage her. The friendship between Andrew and Spencer withstands confusion and misunderstandings. There is much banter between characters which gives the book a charm in the beginning, but tends to wear thin by the end. True and honest discussion are withheld causing needless confusion. Emotions and immature angst erupt over the smallest slights. The setting and the passion for motorcars gave this book a clever twist, but ultimately it lost its steam by the end.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.